Support Local Communities
Support Local Communities
To appreciate a country, you need to be in contact with the locals.
Not the ones you find in souvenir shops.
The ones you may meet with us as we travel together.
The baker in town.
The farmer at the market.
The artisan in the studio.
Enrich your life supporting local communities
We care deeply about the places we travel to.
We work hard to ensure your visit has a positive effect.
We have a close collaboration with people we value and highly regard.
We seek out experiences that mirror our values and passion.
This leaves a more meaningful and memorable impact on you as our traveler,
and it brings positive lasting benefits to the communities we support.
Responsible travel is part of who we are
The meaning of Responsible Travel
Being social and culturally aware when you travel, understanding your effect on the places you visit and making it a positive one
Responsible travel is a way of looking at Italy from a local’s point of view,
rather than an outsider.
It is about going deeper than just visiting the main tourist attractions.
It is an understanding of the importance of the local identity, culture, and economy.
Think Local - Act Local - Be Local
Ways You Can Be a Responsible Traveler in Italy
Be respectful
Engage with local customs and traditions respectfully
Dress appropriately when visiting sacred spaces
Preserve UNESCO World Heritage sites, natural trails, and historic cities
Learn some Italian words and phrases to connect with locals
Ask before taking photos of people
Be mindful
Slow down and explore one region at a time for a more immersive experience
Travel during the off season and visit lesser known destinations
Eat in season local products labeled “bio” for organic, and “km zero” for food traveled zero kilometers
Be supportive
Stay in locally owned accommodations for a more authentic experience
Dine at local establishments to preserve the Italian food culture
Buy handicrafts direct from the local artisan or maker to keep traditions alive
Purchase regional specialty food products directly from local producers
Be environmentally aware
Use refillable water bottles at the many public water fountains and stations available
Say no to plastic bags and carry reusable bags
Practice responsible waste management and recycle
Be educated
Research your destination before you arrive
Learn about the Italian culture, lifestyle, and etiquette
Leave a positive impact in Italy
What does Audrey do to promote sustainable tourism in Italy?
I have lived and studied in several European countries, and I have family and friends living in Europe.
My respect for the regions, the local culture, and the people, is genuine and profound.
Traveling with a small group – average size is 6 so you will feel like you are traveling with friends and family
Employing local licensed tour guides – who offer you engaging insights into the local history, culture, and customs in the area they specialize in
Promoting local food and wine producers – out of the way trattorias, family run wineries, and local markets offering you fresh and authentic regional cuisine
Participating in local festivals and events – whether celebrating a certain food or cultural dish, these immersive interactions with the locals enrich your travel experiences
No commission stops – each itinerary is customized with genuine recommendations to assist you in supporting local regional communities and in making a positive difference
Using the latest technologies – AXUS for client’s itineraries helps create an almost paper free workplace
Gain Insider Access to Our Way of Life
Our trip to France was a lifetime experience and it couldn’t have happened without Audrey’s expertise with the country and the culture. One thing we loved was Audrey’s knowledge of each region we went to and her connecting our group with locals who guided us through each region’s specialties. If we had been with a generic tour guide, we would have missed so much. Our hotels were all locally owned and the personal touch at each place was wonderful. Audrey felt like our own family and that is just an intangible benefit of her personality and service.
Mariah and Joseph, Pasadena CA
My family and I recently traveled to Italy with Audrey. Audrey enhanced our trip way beyond anything we could have organized ourselves. Audrey is well networked with local hotels, guides and transportation services. All of Audrey’s contacts respect and adore her and make sure her clients get the best service. I highly recommend Audrey. She saves you hours of logistics time, because she knows the regions and people well. She really took care of us. Our small group tour was far more satisfying than a larger tour could have ever been for not much more money.
Barbara, Grand Junction CO
Wow! Audrey shared her love of the region by taking us to family-owned producers of prosecco, wine, grappa, coffee, balsamic vinegar, prosciutto and more. We had wonderful meals in small family-owned restaurants that you wouldn't/couldn't find on your own, including one in a renovated garage. Audrey is warm, friendly, caring, and creative. We saw parts of Venice we never knew about although we've been there a few times already. We went to one of the islands that 99% of travelers never go to. It was great!
Ellen and Barry, Oakland CA
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